Whole Story

Reading the label on a food package can be pretty scary these days. In the early 20^th century, food scientists began to “improve upon” foods and, using artificial additives, created fake food products more cheaply than the authentic originals. We’ve been walking science experiments ever since! Whether we are concerned about known or unknown effects, artificial additives may serve other interests, but not our bodies. Simply put, they are not natural. To keep what we put on our plates as natural as possible, Whole Foods Market is committed to selling food that is free of artificial preservatives, colors, flavors and sweeteners as well as hydrogenated fats. All of the food that we sell meets that standard. No label reading required. Let’s cook in the kitchen, not the science lab Hydrogenated fats are made by injecting hydrogen into vegetable fats under high heat and pressure, resulting in a chemical configuration that is not found in nature. In addition to prolonging shelf life, they are used to enhance and preserve texture in foods despite the fact that there are natural fats with similar abilities and with less risk for increasing coronary heart disease. Whole Foods Market does not sell foods that contain hydrogenated fats. Let’s nix the synthetic nitrites and nitrates While they occur naturally in some foods in small amounts, nitrates and nitrites are often added to preserve bacon, ham, hotdogs, sausages and deli meats. Whole Foods Market does not sell products with synthetic nitrates or nitrites. Let’s enjoy our dried fruit naturally Used to prevent discoloration and retain moisture in dried fruit, sulfites can also cause reactions in many people. Whole Foods Market does not sell dried fruit with added sulfites. If you want to delve into the nitty-gritty details, you can check out our extensive list of unacceptable ingredients. Remember: Every bite has a story. Your conscious food choices make a world of difference. Learn more at Let’s Retake Our Plates.